India’s rapid technological progress is not only making waves in the country but also setting a global precedent, according to Bill Gates, co-chair of the Gates Foundation. Speaking at the Times Now Summit, Gates highlighted how India’s investments in education, infrastructure, and digital innovation have made it a model for other nations tackling development challenges.

“I remember saying in 1997 that if India continued to invest in education, infrastructure, and technology, it would one day become one of the great superpowers of the 21st century,” he recalled. “But I underestimated just how much India would accomplish in a single generation.”

Gates pointed to India’s advancements in public health, noting that maternal and child mortality rates have dropped to less than a third of what they were 15 years ago. He also credited the country’s large-scale efforts in sanitation and disease control.

However, India’s contributions extend far beyond its borders. “Today, 60% of the world’s vaccines come from India, including affordable vaccines for meningitis, rotavirus, pneumococcus, and others,” Gates said. “India has driven progress not just for Indians but for the entire world.”

A major part of India’s success, Gates emphasised, is its leadership in digital public infrastructure. He highlighted Aadhaar, UPI, and MOSIP as pioneering systems that have transformed financial inclusion and governance, offering a model for other countries. “India’s digital platforms have set a global standard, showing other countries how to deliver better services to their people,” he said.

Beyond digital infrastructure, Gates lauded India’s strides in AI-powered agriculture. “India is pioneering AI-powered, climate-smart agricultural solutions that provide millions of farmers with real-time data to help improve their yields,” he said, showcasing how the country’s innovations are addressing global challenges like food security.

India’s expanding role as a startup hub and a key player in AI was another highlight. “India is working to drive game-changing innovations for the years to come,” he said, stressing the country’s growing influence in shaping the future of technology.

Having worked with India for over two decades, the Gates Foundation views it as a crucial partner in global development. “Our foundation has been privileged to partner with India for over two decades, and I know that partnership will only grow stronger,” Gates added.

As India continues to scale its technological ambitions, Gates stressed that its journey offers valuable lessons for the world. With a strong focus on innovation, ambition, and local leadership, India is not only driving economic growth but also providing a blueprint for solving some of the world’s biggest challenges.